FG Seeks Public Input on Social Media Age Limits for Children

The Federal Government has opened a public consultation to seek citizens’ views on measures aimed at protecting children online, including the possible introduction of age limits for social media use.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, announced the initiative on Tuesday through his official account on X. He noted that while the internet offers children opportunities for learning, creativity and communication, it also exposes them to risks such as cyberbullying, harmful content, online exploitation and the misuse of personal data, as well as emerging threats linked to artificial intelligence tools.

Tijani said Nigeria is examining several policy options to strengthen online safety for children, including age restrictions on social media platforms, stronger age-verification systems, greater platform accountability and improved regulatory oversight. He stressed that public contributions are necessary to ensure any framework adopted reflects national priorities and protects children’s rights within Nigeria’s digital environment.

The minister also pointed to similar actions in other countries, including Australia, which has introduced restrictions on social media access for users under 16. He encouraged parents, educators, young people and digital professionals to participate in the survey to help shape policies that promote safer online spaces for children in Nigeria.